Comparison of Spencer muscle energy technique and Passive stretching in adhesive capsulitis: A single blind randomized control trial

Abstract

Objective: To compare the effects of Spencer muscle energy technique and passive stretching in adhesive capsulitis.

Methods: The single-blind randomised control trial was conducted at the District Headquarter Hospital and Fatima Hospital, Sargodha, Pakistan, from February to May 2018, and comprised patients of either gender aged 30-55 years with idiopathic frozen shoulder stage 1 and 2 or stiff painful shoulder joint for at least 3 months. They were randomised into two equal groups using the sealed envelope method. Group 1 was exposed to muscle energy technique, while group 2 was exposed to passive stretching. Pain, shoulder range of motion and function were assessed by numeric pain rating scale, goniometer, shoulder pain and disability index and the quick version of the disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand questionnaire. Measurements were taken at baseline, 2nd and 4th week. Data was analysed using SPSS 20.

Results: Of the 60 patients, there were 30(50%) in each of the two groups. There were 39(65%) females and 21(35%) males with an overall mean age of 45.84±5.88 years. All parameters significantly improved in group 1 compared to group 2 t post-intervention (p<0.001).

Conclusions: Spencer technique was found to be more effective than passive stretching in treating patients with adhesive capsulitis.

Keywords: Adhesive capsulitis, Frozen shoulder, Osteopathic manipulative treatment, Spencer technique, Passive stretching, Muscle energy technique..